Playa Baru is the winter home and studio of artist and designer Douglas Zaruba. Located

1 1/2 hours by boat from Bocas del Toro, Panama this remote retreat offers the peace and serenity so necessary for artistic inspiration. The warm, clear Caribbean waters offer excellent snorkeling and sailing opportunities, soft salt-and-pepper sandy beaches, and sweet tropical breezes.  Painters will appreciate the luminous sunrises, waking to the squawks of parrots and the spectacular sunsets  while dining over the water.

The guest house is located steps from the beach and features two beds beneath a palm roof. Lighting at night is by kerosene lamp, but solar power is available to charge cell phones or iPods. Internet service is available in Bocas, but not here. After a mild period of withdrawal, you will enjoy being disconnected from the rest of the crazy world. Accommodations are primitive, but there are luxuries: think “Survivor” with lobster and champagne...